Best Flea Collar for Cats Reviews – Our Best Choices for 2018

Warm weather encourages family vacations, fragrant flowers, and unfortunately, annoying parasites. Fleas and ticks can prey on our furry friends all year long, but summer can be a catalyst for major infestations.

Flea collars can be an easy, low-cost solution for flea and tick control. There are a lot of flea collars on the market and some of them can be more harmful than useful to your cat. We’ve listed our favorite choices, so you can decide which product is the best flea collar for cats.

Quick Comparison Chart: Best Flea Collar for Cats

Does Your Cat Need a Flea Collar?

Even if fleas are not visible on your cat, she may still be infected. Any animal that spends time outside could be exposed to ticks and fleas. Cats are meticulous cleaners and will often ingest the parasites before you can even detect them. This creates new, unique dangers specific to your kitty.

Ticks are notorious carriers for Lyme disease. They can also carry tularemia and cytauxzoonosis, which can lead to feline anemia and other potentially lethal complications.

When an animal is infected wi﻿th﻿﻿﻿ fleas, the whole household is miserable. Unfortunately, fleas are more than common nuisances. They can transmit diseases to you and your cat. Such as mycoplasma haemofelis, tapeworms, and cat scratch fever. In addition, the saliva from fleas can cause severe allergic reactions in some cats.

If you notice your cat has fleas, treat her immediately. However, you should medicate your cat prior to an infestation to avoid any exposure to these diseases. Prevention is one of the reasons why it’s important to find the best flea collar for cats; a good flea collar can save you and your furry friend a lot of trouble.

Buying the Best Flea Collar for Cats: What to Consider

There are several types of flea collars available for your cat’s protection. The most popular flea collar is chemically-based and manufactured by major brands, such as Bayer, Adams, and Hartz. However, there are several non-chemical flea collars available as well, such as amber collars, herbal collars, and electro-static collars.

There are several factors you should consider during your search for the best flea collar for cats, especially when you’re considering a chemical-based collar. Take note of the flea collar's dispersal of active ingredients, the fit, overall protection, and weight and age requirements.

Chemical collars kill ticks and fleas by releasing pesticides. Dispersal can happen two ways. The first, and least effective, method releases a localized toxin that only kills parasites in the vicinity. This method can be more dangerous for your cat and raise the likelihood of a toxic reaction. The second method releases toxins that infiltrate your cat’s skin to provide wholesome protection, similar to topical treatments.

Since you are exposing your cat to potentially harmful chemicals, it’s important to purchase a high-quality flea collar from a reputable brand. When in doubt about a product, ask your veterinarian for her experiences.

Age and Weight

Age and weight also play a significant part in your search for the best flea collar for cats. Manufacturers will post specific guidelines to ensure the safety of your cat. These guidelines may vary, but in general, cats must be over 8 weeks of age and weigh over 5lbs to use a flea collar. Failing to adhere to these restrictions increases the chances of injury or even death.

​Ensure that the flea collar will fit your cat. The collar should fit snugly around your cat’s neck but also be loose enough to allow your cat to escape if the collar is snagged. A good rule of thumb is to allow one to two fingers inside the collar. Some flea collars offer a quick release option, allowing your cat to easily break away from the collar.

​Finally, research the specifics of the flea collar’s protection. Killing the current infestation is only the first step to a parasite-free cat. The best flea collar for cats kills ticks and fleas at any life-stage.

More About Flea and Tick Prevention

To select the best flea collar for cats, you should know what you're dealing with. Fighting flea and tick infestations can be a lifelong battle. For more helpful information about parasite exposure and their life cycles, check out this video.

Benefits of Using a Flea Collar

There are several flea and tick preventatives on the market, such as oral tablets, topical treatments, and flea collars. In previous years, flea collars received a bad rap for adverse reactions to toxins and a lack of efficacy. However, recent advances in flea collar technology have led to a resurgence of popularity. Flea collars now last longer than many topical treatments, can be just as effective, and do not cause unsightly, oily skin. In addition, flea collars can be less expensive than topical and oral treatments and are easy to apply.

Natural flea collars come with additional benefits. Herbal collars can release a pleasant aroma that can calm your pet and protect them from parasite infestations.

Controversy of Chemical-based Flea Collars

Even the best flea collar for cats comes with risks. Like any chemically-treated product, you should take care when applying. If a cat has a reaction to a flea collar, he will usually show it within the first couple days. Take note of any warning signs, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, clumsy movements, and behavior changes. Closely monitor the area around your cat’s neck. Look for signs of an allergic reaction, such as redness and hair loss. If your cat develops any of these symptoms, remove the collar immediately and speak to your veterinarian.

You may want to investigate natural flea collar alternatives if your cat has an adverse reaction to a chemical-based collar. However, keep in mind that natural flea collars come with associated risks as well. Some pets may have allergic reactions to the oils and herbs impregnated in the collars.

The 5 Best Flea Collar for Cats

Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar

If your primary concern is longevity and reliability, consider the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar. Bayer is a well-established manufacturer that specializes in the production of several flea and tick preventatives, such as K9 Advantix and Advantage II.

Seresto works similarly to a topical treatment. It releases imidacloprid and flumerthrin gradually, which spreads across your cat’s skin. Imidacloprid and flumerthrin are highly effective ingredients, known to kill fleas within 24 hours and larvae for up to 8 months (Parasites and Vectors).

Seresto also lasts much longer than competing flea collar brands, allowing your cat to remain protected for an additional two months, depending on water exposure. As time progresses, Seresto gradually replenishes the chemicals, reducing the chance of negative reactions, and allowing complete coverage for eight months.

PRO'S

8 months of protection

Safety Feature: Quick Release

Water-resistant

Slow chemical release

Sizes for small and large cats

Kills ticks and fleas in all life-cycles

CON'S

Chemicals may cause toxic extreme reactions

Cats must be 10 weeks or older

Known to cause allergic reaction in some cats

Pet Gallo Flea and Tick Collar

The Pet Gallo Flea and Tick Collar can be a budget-friendly alternative to Seresto. Like Seresto, this flea collar releases chemicals across the cat’s skin. Pet Gallo also claims to kill the fleas in every life-cycle, protecting your cat from second generation infestations. The actual design of the collar shares many features with the Seresto collar, such as an improved scent, water-resistance, and a breakaway design. The breakaway design can save you and your cat from unnecessary heartache. If your cat likes to roam through the woods, this feature can help him escape if his collar gets caught.

The downside to this product is its lack of thorough customer support and established brand standing. Although most cats are effectively treated against fleas and ticks, Pet Gallo does not have nearly the rapport that a large manufacturer has.

Tetrachlorvinphos, the active ingredient in the Pet Gallo collar, can be harmful to small children and pregnant women. Pet Gallo collars only have a small amount of this chemical, but if anyone in your household is at risk, consider an alternative.

If brand standing and tetrachlorvinphos exposure aren't a concern, consider this collar. The Pet Gallo Flea and Tick Collar comes with a promising full money-back guarantee and should be an option for any budget-minded buyer looking for the best flea collar for cats.

PRO'S

6 month protection

Water-resistant

Breakaway design

Citrus scent

Trendy collar design

CON'S

Not as reliable as big brands

Breakaway design is not as effective

Potentially harmful active ingredient

Shoo! Non-toxic Tags

A cat should never be without his primary identification collar. If you’re concerned about fitting two collars on your cat's neck, try Shoo! Tags. This product can make your cat’s existing collar one of the best flea collar for cats options available. The tags link directly onto your cat’s existing collar. A small magnetic strip emits an electromagnetic frequency to deter insects from attacking your cat. These tags typically wear out every four months, which can be a convenient alternative to other non-chemical products.

0BugZone is a USA-based manufacturer that produces several versions of this product for humans, horses, cats, and dogs. The company boasts that their products are highly effective, will not be interrupted by other frequencies, and works in communion with the natural electric energy your cat expels.

Keep in mind that while this product is very effective against stopping and preventing infestations from adult parasites, it will not kill eggs and larvae. However, if you’re only planning on using this product as a flea and tick preventative, this can be a great purchase.

PRO'S

Eliminates the need for two collars

4 months of protection

Chemical-free

Water-resistant

Effective

CON'S

Will not kill eggs and larvae

Does not last as long as chemical collars

Baltic Secret’s Baltic Amber Collar

If you're feeling anxious about chemicals, the Baltic Amber Collar is one of the best natural options available. This collar is composed of a leather strap and unpolished amber pieces. This collar dual serves as an aromatic protectant and an electrostatic protectant. As the raw amber pieces rub against your cat’s fur, an electro-static charge is generated, deterring insects. In addition, the friction from the amber also gives off a resinous aroma that further discourages infestations.

The manufacturer recommends changing the beads twice a year or when they become polished. As a non-chemical alternative, this product greatly minimizes potential allergic reactions for your cat and eliminates the risk of toxic reactions. However, some sensitive cats may develop an allergic reaction to the amber pieces. Be sure to monitor your cat for signs of an allergic reaction.

Whether you’re hesitant to subject your cat to chemicals, or are unable to due to your cat’s age and weight, this can be a great natural alternative to have on your list of best flea collars for cats.

PRO'S

No chemicals

Approved for young and small cats

100 Day Guarantee

CON'S

Not as reliable as manufactured flea collars

Size is large for smaller cats

Not a specialized flea treatment

Traditional buckle collar

Pet Guard Natural Collar

Pet Guard Natural Collar (Amazon)is another excellent natural alternative to chemical-based flea collars. This collar emits a minty fragrance that is known to repel fleas and other insects, such as mosquitos and ticks. The flea collar is long and cuttable, so it should fit any cat.Pet Guard is a United States-based manufacturer that produces several natural and organic products for pets, such as grooming tools, treats, and toys.

However, since this is a natural product and not specifically developed for flea and tick prevention, it is not guaranteed that it will protect your pet.While there are no chemicals present in this collar, you should use caution when applying to your cat.

Although Pet Guard does not specify exactly which herbs are induced in their collars, they reference minty aromas. Herbs from the mint family repel insects but can also be harmful to cats if ingested Pet360. You can avoid this by ensuring that the collar is properly fitted and cut.

Although the results of herbal-scented collars vary from cat to cat, the potential for safe prevention and fresh aromas make this a solid option.

Quick Comparison Chart: Best Flea Collar for Cats

Conclusion: Which Product is the Best Flea Collar for Cats?

Determining the best flea collar for cats should depend on the needs of your cat and household. However, if your primary goal is to quickly, safely, and effectively protect your cat from parasites, Seresto is a great choice. The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar injects efficient chemicals through your cat’s skin tissue, killing ticks and fleas at any life stage. These chemicals are released gradually over an 8 month period, dwarfing the longevity of topical treatments and reducing the risk for severe reactions.

This collar comes with a built-in breakaway feature, allowing your cat to remove the collar in emergency situations. Finally, this flea and tick preventative is backed by the Bayer company name, making it one of the best flea collar for cats products on the market. There are many excellent flea collars available. Consider speaking to your vet today to help you select the best flea collar for cats that could work for you.

MeeowCat.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.Additionally, Meeowcat.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.

Disclaimer

MeeowCat.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their cats; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. For more information, please read our privacy policy.